The government has added sulphuric acid to its list of regulated substances in The Poisons Act 1972. Due to this latest amendment, as of July 1st, 2018, members of the public must have an Explosives Precursors and Poisons (EPP) licence to buy sulphuric acid above 15% concentration.

How are sales of batteries and battery acid affected?

For members of the public who do not hold a valid EPP licence, the legislation will affect the sale of batteries in the following ways;

Lithium-ion, AGM & GEL batteries

Acid-free and factory-activated batteries will be unaffected by the change and are available to purchase as normal via our online shop or in store.

Maintenance-free (un-activated) batteries – previously supplied with a separate acid pack for home-activation.

Under the new law, we are no longer able to supply these batteries as they come. Instead, prior to shipping, they will be filled, charged and tested by our trained staff on site. Although we will endeavour to keep a small stock of our most popular batteries ready for dispatch, in most cases Next Day Delivery will no longer be available on these items due to charging and testing times.

For local customers without a valid EPP Licence, please be aware that for the majority of standard acid batteries, we will now require 24 hours notice prior to collection.

Traditional/Wet batteries - previously supplied with a separate acid pack for home-activation.

These batteries are designed with breather holes on the side which are exposed for filling. Unfortunately, due to the risk of acid leaks, we are no longer able to supply this type of battery online.

Local customers will still be able to purchase batteries with breather holes from our store, however, we ask that customers exercise caution during transportation, the battery must be kept upright to avoid spillage. Wemoto cannot accept responsibility for acid leaks where these batteries have been mistreated or upturned after leaving our store. Please provide 24 hours notice prior to collection.

The sale of batteries before July 1st, 2018

Though the legislation comes into effect on July 1st, 2018, we will make the required changes to our website on 26th June 2018, so we can fulfil orders in time for the new legislation.

What if I have an Explosives Precursors and Poisons (EPP) licence?

If you have a valid EPP licence, you can buy any of the above types of battery, including those which are pre-activated, along with the separate acid packs from our showroom provided you bring adequate photo ID with your valid licence. As we are required to log the purchase on the back of your licence, we cannot accept scans or photocopies for online ordering.

What is the reason for this legislation?

In response to a rise in acid-related violent crimes in recent years, the government has added Sulphuric Acid to its list of Regulated Substances.

What else should I know?

From November 1st, 2018, not only will it be illegal to buy sulphuric acid above 15% concentration, it will also be illegal to possess or use it.

Where does this law apply?

The legislation currently applies to the UK, though this may change in the future. Wemoto franchises outside the UK will still be able to supply batteries with separate battery acid, subject to the appropriate country's laws.

What about trade customers?

This legislation only affects retail customers. Those who have a WMD trade account will be able to purchase as normal, though obviously, the same rules will apply to them when selling to their own retail customers.

You can view the changes to the legislation here: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2018/451/made